The promoted Premier League side has strengthened its squad with two African internationals in deals worth a combined £28.5 million.
Ipswich, England (Running Africa) — Ipswich Town have strengthened their squad ahead of their return to the Premier League, completing the signings of Moroccan defender Issa Diop and Ghanaian winger Abdul Fatawu as manager Gary O’Neil continues an ambitious summer rebuild.
The arrivals add proven top-flight experience and attacking creativity to an Ipswich side preparing for its first Premier League campaign since securing promotion.
Issa Diop Joins From Fulham in £8.5 Million Deal
Ipswich confirmed the signing of Issa Diop from Fulham for a reported £8.5 million, with the 29-year-old center-back agreeing to a contract that runs until 2030.
Diop brings a wealth of Premier League experience, having made 173 league appearances during his spells with West Ham United and Fulham.
The Moroccan international also featured prominently at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, helping the Atlas Lions reach the quarter-finals as Morocco continued its rise among world football’s elite.
Speaking after completing the move, Diop expressed confidence in his decision.
“I know this is the right place for me,” he said.
Abdul Fatawu Completes £20 Million Switch
Ipswich also secured the signing of Ghana international Abdul Fatawu from Leicester City in a deal reportedly worth £20 million.
The 22-year-old winger has signed a five-year contract, becoming one of the club’s marquee additions ahead of the new season.
Fatawu scored 16 goals in 100 appearances for Leicester after joining the club from Sporting CP in 2023, establishing himself as one of Ghana’s brightest attacking talents.
Known for his pace, creativity, and ability to operate across the front line, the winger is expected to add greater attacking depth to Ipswich’s squad.
Gary O’Neil Continues Summer Rebuild
Diop and Fatawu become Ipswich Town’s fifth and sixth signings of the summer transfer window as Gary O’Neil reshapes the squad following promotion to the Premier League.
The pair joins a growing list of new arrivals that includes:
- Emersonn
- Cedric Kipré
- Chuba Akpom
- Kayne van Oevelen
The recruitment strategy reflects the club’s determination to strengthen every area of the squad ahead of the challenges of England’s top flight.
African Talent Set to Feature at Portman Road
The arrivals of Diop and Fatawu further underline the growing influence of African footballers in the Premier League.
With Morocco and Ghana continuing to produce elite-level talent, both players are expected to play key roles as Ipswich seek to establish themselves back among England’s top clubs and compete successfully throughout the 2026–27 season.
